The information displayed is an extract from the 2008 Handbook. Alternatively, you may switch to 2007 Handbook data.

Forensic Biology and Toxicology (BForensics) + Molecular Biology (BSc) + Biomedical Science (BSc)

Course Code: B1257

This double degree, which can also accommodate a Criminology minor, combines the Forensic Biology and Toxicology, Molecular Biology and Biomedical Science majors to generate a cognate and broad program designed to enhance the employment prospects of graduates seeking careers in forensics, molecular genetics and/or in medical research. It is designed to produce forensic professionals with well-honed skills in DNA-profiling/ancient DNA analysis who are competent in the forensic analytical techniques relevant to drug and toxin detection and quantification in fluids, tissues and contaminated products. Students in the program are also introduced to aspects of forensic pathology, forensic anthropology and forensic botany/palynology with an emphasis on the collection of evidence and its presentation in court. The forensic content is complemented by thorough training in the related areas of molecular genetics, biochemistry, medical microbiology/immunology, biomedical physiology and the recognition, aetiology and mechanisms of disease. Graduates will be awarded a BForensics (Forensic Biology and Toxicology) and a BSc (Molecular Biology and Biomedical Science.)
For more information see the individual entries for the Forensic Biology and Toxicology, Molecular Biology and Biomedical Science majors in this section of the Handbook.

Level:	Bachelor
Qualification:	Bachelor of Forensics (BForensics) in Forensic Biology and Toxicology + Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Molecular Biology + Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biomedical Science
Duration:	4 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Availability:	Murdoch campus (internal)
Employment Prospects:	The establishment of a national DNA database and the increasing emphasis on the monitoring of blood and urine samples for residual alcohol and drugs has seen a significant increase in employment opportunities for forensic biologists and toxicologists, particularly in government Health Departments and in analytical laboratories. Graduates have also found employment as Crime Scene Officers with the Police Service. Graduates can also expect to obtain employment in hospitals, medical research centres and in the pharmaceutical industry. The techniques of genetic analysis and analytical chemistry are highly transportable and graduates can also expect to gain employment in research organisations such as the CSIRO, in agriculture departments and in food processing companies.
Special Requirements:	Students will not be required to kill any vertebrate animal but they will be required to work with fresh tissue from dead animals in certain units. Students will also be exposed to graphic images of homicidal injuries.

>> View course structure in University Handbook

>> Return to List of Courses on Offer

>> List of Program Chairs